RARE Review: A Sophisticated Steakhouse Elevating City Walk

In recent months, my attention has been captivated by an entirely different kind of beef. While the feud between rappers Drake and Kendrick Lamar has been grabbing headlines, another sizzling story has been unfolding in City Walk with the opening of a new steakhouse: RARE.

RARE blends the trendy vibe of a New York bar with the elegance of an art deco Parisian brasserie. The decor, with its rich ruby and rouge color palette, exudes cosmopolitan flair and Parisian charm. Yet, RARE is distinctly Dubai, inspired by the city's vibrant essence.

Spanning 130 seats, RARE offers a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Plush booths provide an intimate dining experience, while a striking bar invites guests for pre- or post-dinner drinks. Whether you opt for the greenery-adorned outdoor terrace or the cozy indoor seating, every corner of RARE promises a stylish setting for your meal. The restaurant buzzes with a vivacious energy, featuring playful touches like pursed lips printed on plates and a charismatic front-of-house team.

In a city where many restaurants offer a mix of dishes, RARE stands out as a carnivorous paradise, using only the finest cuts of meat. Chef Jesse Blake has crafted a menu divided into nibbles, oysters and caviar, appetizers, steaks, mains, and desserts, each offering an elevated take on steakhouse classics.

Highlights include the Fried Olives with crumbled feta (AED 21), Seared Tuna Crudo with anchovy soy and brown butter béarnaise (AED 96), and the unique Ox Tongue Salad (AED 62) with charred onion and lamb lettuce. The Burrata (AED 81), creamy and served with tomato and fig relish, tarragon, and grilled bread, balances acidity and sweetness perfectly. The Bone Marrow on Toast (AED 48) with pickled onion and mushroom delivers a rich, umami-packed bite.

RARE’s Chicken Thigh Skewers (AED 86) are juicy and tender, enhanced by smoked salsa roja and a hint of lemon. The Heirloom Tomato & Peach Salad (AED 39) offers a refreshing burst of flavor anchored by tangy goat cheese crumbs.

As expected, steak is the star at RARE. With classic cuts meticulously prepared on charcoal, the menu features options like the succulent oyster blade paired with pebre and Amarillo chili (AED 165), the grand 1.4kg Tomahawk (AED 810), and the 600g Chateaubriand (AED 750). The 200g 9+ Wagyu Striploin (AED 245), served medium rare with wasabi cream and tempura crispies, was a highlight, showcasing the meat’s flavor and quality without unnecessary embellishments.

The Braised Ox Cheek (AED 195), tender and flavorful, pairs beautifully with smoked butternut purée and onions. Sides like crispy Brussels sprouts, mac and cheese, and panko onion rings complement the mains perfectly.

For dessert, RARE offers a delightful selection including the Instagram-worthy Raspberry Soufflé (AED 65), the Soft Chocolate (AED 67) with malt parfait, cherry, oat crunch, and torched meringue, and the whimsical Whipped Burnt Cheesecake (AED 58) with maple-grilled peaches and salted almond crumb. The licensed venue also boasts an impressive beverage program, featuring clever cocktails and a curated wine list with international and regional selections.

RARE joins the ranks of sophisticated steakhouses in Dubai, alongside Beefbar, CARO, and Leña. City Walk, previously known for its cafe culture, is experiencing a culinary resurgence thanks to its newly opened licensed district and the arrival of RARE.

In a city filled with classic steakhouses, RARE offers a modern and refined approach to its meat emporium. It’s a delicious distraction from any beef that may be happening in your life—or in the lives of Drake and Kendrick Lamar.